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Cruising around the Greek Islands

Santorini

Mariamichelle via pixabay

More than 1,400 islands, the Ionian Islands and the Aegean Islands, make up much of Greece’s wonderful coastline.  All these islands, large and small come with inviting white sand beaches and deeply inviting blue waters, some are deserted while other are home to thriving club and bar scenes, and each is an absolute pleasure to explore.

Take a look at our 5 favourite places to see on a Cruise around the Greek Isles.

Mykonos

Mykonos flamboyant streets ooze style - from the chic restaurants of Little Venice(though we suggest that you don’t limit your gastronomic exploration to this spot as there are some fabulous restaurants away from the seafront)to the traditional old town.

If you’re looking for a party then Mykonos provides. We recommend Paradise beach, which is home to Cavo Paradiso, a hill top club that overlooks the sea and has an outdoor pool, there are also plenty of picturesque white sand beaches to keep you company. For something a little quieter, head to Ftelia or Agios Sostis, which both have much quieter beaches and are no less beautiful.

Santorini

Santorini is probably best known for its dramatic views and colourful cliffs that climb up from the deep blue waters of the Aegean sea.

The beaches are beautiful, though the island’s charm lies in its tranquility - it is a place where one can simply stop to explore, walk for miles across the wonderful shoreline and through the hills taking in the picturesque blue roofed Cycladic houses, and stopping whenever the mood takes you, to sample the delicious seafood on a restaurant terrace overlooking the Mediterranean.

Crete (Heraklion)

Crete is Greece’s largest island - it’s diverse and full of history - from the Venetian fortresses in Rethymo to the Zominthos archaeological site in the Mt Ida range in the centre of the island - there is simply so much to explore.

However, it’s not just about history(though Crete does it magnificently), as the island is replete with natural beauty too. There are myriad mountain ranges, dramatic caves and rugged gorges, beautiful beaches and even a palm-tree forest - which is the only one like it in Europe.

If you’d like to learn about Crete’s rich cultural heritage then we suggest a trip to one of the traditional villages in the mountains where it’s not uncommon to see men in their traditional dress. The north of the island is the busiest, but thanks to the sheer quantity of tourism to the island - it’s possible, and quite easy to travel to its every corner with little trouble.

Rhodes

Rhodes is our favourite, and the largest of the, Dodecanese Islands. It has a fantastic collection of beaches to choose from alongside dense woodland and a healthy amount of history to explore.

The Byzantine old town is lovely to simply walk, it’s home to a maze of cobbled streets and lots of beautiful architecture. Of course, if you’re more interested in the nightlife - then you’ll find plenty of that too - from packed out squares to decadent all night clubs - it’s all here. Be sure to check out the quaint little village of Lindo, its beaches can get a bit full but it’s worth it for the Acropolis that towers over the town - make the trek up the hill, as not only is the Acropolis fascinating, but the views are simply stunning.

Kos

Kos is picturesque to the extreme - it is soaked in history and natural beauty. Whether you want to explore the island’s architectural treasures such as the fortress in Kos town, the Asclepeion or the ancient Odeon or simply stick to the beach(is 290KM of coast enough?)and top up your tan - you’ll find everything you need.

In particular we find Kos is great for water sports, such as wind surfing, jet skiing and diving. Kardamena is best for its nightlife – with karaoke bars, English pubs and vibrant clubs taking centre stage, while Kos Town can also be lively, though more centered around the harbour-side, and the bars of the backstreets.

Written by Danny Smith owner of About2Cruise. More articles like this can be found on our blog at www.about2cruise.co.uk/blog

Danny

Music and Travel fan. Owner of About2Cruise....(Read More)

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